The most unique film festivals across Australia

By Mckenna Uhde
hero media
Whether you love oceans or mountains, are curious about Korean cinema or want to learn more about Indigenous cultures in the Northern Territory, there’s a film festival out there for you. Here’s our lowdown.

When it comes to the film festival circuit in Australia, we all know to visit the old standbys – Sydney Film Festival, Adelaide Film Festival and Melbourne International come to mind. But what about more niche or themed festivals, where you can delight in your favourite styles and genres for an entire week straight?
Luckily for you, we’ve compiled some of the most unique film festivals across Australia.
Surely one of these will tickle your film-loving fancy.

Sydney Underground Film Festival

Sydney, NSW

This unconventional film festival held at the Factory Theatre in Marrickville premiers unique independent films that push the limits of filmmaking. For four days, watch a line-up of movies devoted to renewing local interest in experimental film as a part of an international underground film culture.

 

This year’s festival, held in September, took viewers on a journey of intriguing and inspiring works of film, closing its final night with Nicholas Cage’s bloody and harrowing performance in Mandy.
Sydney Underground has become the perfect place for unconventional film-lovers to gather and celebrate the strange and eccentric side of the film world.
For 2019 details, head to the Sydney Underground Film Festival website.

The Banff Mountain Film Festival

Australia tour dates and locations TBA

For all the adrenaline-junkies out there, make sure to catch the Banff Mountain Film Festival as it makes a pit stop in Australia along its international tour, showcasing the best of mountain adventure film.

 

This unique film festival has been running since 1976 with 375 films entered annually, ranging in topics from remote landscapes and cultures to adrenaline-packed action sport.
The festival is held every November in Banff, Canada where 300 films are shown over the course of a week.
Two hours of award-winning content is then chosen to tour 35 countries, with the festival gracing Australian screens throughout April, May and June.

SF3 SmartFone Flick Fest

Sydney, NSW

Inside the Smartfone Flick Fest.

If you’re looking for a challenge when it comes to filmmaking, this one-of-a-kind festival gets creative with some unusual submission parameters.
At the SF3 SmartFone Flick Fest, every film submitted must only being shot on a smartphone or tablet and cannot be more than six and a half minutes in length. Perfect for the short attention span.

 

This festival offers a variety of masterclasses alongside the film premiers and makes for an exciting and one-of-a-kind event. It’s the place for film lovers to experience the future of technology and its partnership with top-notch filmmaking.

Cradle Mountain Film Festival

Cradle Mountain, Tas

In its fifth year, Cradle Mountain Film Festival showcases some of the best mountain film from around the world. Created by the Cradle Mountain Canyons, an adventure tourism group, the CMFF aims to engage viewers through the power of art and film as well as offer an insight into the Tasmanian mountainside.

 

This event wants visitors to experience filmmaking second to mountaineering. Enjoy the self-guided Mountain Huts Film Trail, canyoning, yoga and cold water therapy in addition to family-friendly mountain films in the Forest Yurt Cinema. The next edition runs from 29–31 March 2019.

Korean Film Festival in Australia

Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane

A glimpse into the Korean Film Festival in Australia.

The Korean Film Festival will be hitting Australia for the 10th year in 2019, showcasing the latest Korean filmmaking along its Australian tour.
Korean Film Festival strives to reach Australian audiences through universal themes and genres, with 22 films and special guests throughout the four locations.
Visiting Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane, the festival offers a vibrant selection of films sure to delight fans of Korean culture as well as introduce Korean cinema to a broader Australian demographic.

 

Showcasing indie flicks, rom-coms and more, the festival schedule never disappoints and offers a unique experience that will take you on a journey – you’ll forget you’re even in Oz.

Tasmania Breath of Fresh Air Film Festival

Launceston, Tas

Held in May and the only annual film festival in the region, the Tasmanian Breath of Fresh Air Film Festival brings over 30 award-winning films and documentaries from across the world to Launceston.
The four-day festival strives to create a community experience featuring the best of local food, wine and film.

 

Expect a variety of films from a number of unique categories such as Stories of Us showcasing Tasmanian and Australian stories, Eat/Drink/Live featuring fine food, wine and sustainable living, and Call of the Wild telling stories of extreme adventures in the mountains, sea and air. These stories are viewed on the big screen while enjoying the best of Tasmania dining at this experiential film event.

Environmental Film Festival Australia

Melbourne, Vic

The Environmental Film Festival Australia entertains Victorian audiences each year in October with films traversing the relationship between humans and their environment, in an effort to raise awareness for environmental issues around the world.

 

This festival challenges viewers to reflect on the natural world and discuss positive change, by partnering inspirational filmmaking with panel discussions and debates.
Australia has some of the most distinct and stunning natural environments in the world, thus making the perfect location for an environmentalist platform.
Viewers are encouraged to take what they learn from these events and try to make small differences each day toward sustainability. You will visit this captivating event as a viewer and leave motivated to make change.

Queer Screen’s Mardi Gras Film Festival

Sydney, NSW

Sydney is known for its iconic Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, and this film festival fits appropriately into the week’s LGBTIQ pride festivities, running each year in autumn as part of the city-wide celebration.

 

Celebrating its 25th year in 2018, Queer Screen’s Mardi Gras Film Festival showcases queer filmmakers and artists who share the diversity of sexualities and gender identities on screen.
This annual festival reflects the greater Mardi Gras theme as an eccentric and colourful installation into one of Sydney’s biggest events.
Experience Mardi Gras with inspiring tales of diversity by some of Australia’s best filmmakers.

Human Rights Arts & Film Festival

Melbourne, Vic; Launceston, Tas; Canberra, ACT

The Human Rights Arts & Film Festival, a not-for-profit arts organisation, stands out for its seamless incorporation of human rights into the film industry.
This annual event held in May and June explores diverse and inspiring Australian human stories through film, art, music and forums.
Films shown this year included a multi-generational family fighting for Indigenous rights, and the inspiring story of OzHarvest CEO Ronni Kahn and her latest crusade.
The festival aims to engage audiences of all ages with social justice and human rights issues, with the help of local and national artists. It’s an art and film frenzy with a wonderful message.

Fleurieu Film Festival

McLaren Vale, SA

The incredible Fleurieu Film Festival.

With all the excitement around feature film festivals, we often forget to celebrate short film. Luckily, the Fleurieu Film Festival, held next on 9 February 2019, does just that.
Though still in its early years, the short film celebration has become immensely popular for its chosen films as well as its community-feel.

 

The festival provides a relaxing experience set at the Serafino Winery where food, drink and entertainment go hand-in-hand.
Awards and screening nights offer award-winning wines and dinner included with your ticket overlooking the distant South Australian hillside – the ideal way to experience short film.

Ocean Film Festival Australia

Every state and most major cities

The awe-inspiring Ocean Film Festival.

The Ocean Film Festival Australia tour makes sure to hit nearly every major city in Australia, advocating for our oceans’ protection.
This inspiring festival shares stories of exploration and education with over two hours of inspirational and entertaining ocean-related content.
Both Australian and international filmmakers are showcased each year in March covering a range of topics including oceanic environment, marine creatures, ocean related sports, coastal cultures and ocean-lovers.

 

This is the perfect festival for nature-lovers and advocates, as well as those who yearn to learn a little bit more about our incredible oceans.

Travelling Film Festival

NT, QLD, NSW

Following years of success at the Darwin International Film Festival, a platform has now been created by the Darwin Film Society to showcase inspiring film work exclusively out of the Northern Territory.

 

Hitting 18 towns nationwide, the Travelling Film Festival aims to share stories from the Northern Territory with the rest of Australia.
This event enhances the diverse culture of the local community through alternative feature filmmaking, much of which comes from regional and remote NT.
The Darwin Film Society has created a truly unique film experience encapsulating what it means to be a part of the Northern Territory.

See all articles
Uluru at sunset
Australia

10 iPhone hacks to take travel photos like a pro

The new iPhone is almost here, and it could change the way we capture our travels.

Read more
Brisbane Festival in Brisbane, Queensland
Australia

What’s on around Australia in September 2025

September called – festivals, fun and spring vibes await!

Read more
Aerial view of the Great Ocean Road's Warrnambool
Australia

Welcome to the new Australian Traveller website

We are thrilled to introduce you to the brand-new Australian Traveller website.

Read more
A car parked on the side of the road next to a pink lake
Australia

Meet Ask AT: Our game-changing new travel tool

We are excited to share with you Ask AT.

Read more
hero media

Win 1 of 10 luxury holidays worth over $38,000!

    By Editor
    Continue
    What’s better than booking your dream holiday? Winning it, of course!

    Enter the 2025 Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards for your chance to win big in our mega prize giveaway!

    To celebrate our Readers’ Choice Awards, we have curated 10 incredible travel prizes worth $38,871 to give away, to inspire you to explore Australia.

    Please note: you will not be able to choose which prize you win.The winners will be contacted after the competition closes and announced in issue 108 (on sale from 3 November 2025).

    Read the general competition terms and conditions, as well as the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards terms and conditions, before you enter. You only need to enter the giveaway once.

    Entries for this competition close at 5 pm AEST on 25 September 2025.

    Intrepid Travel | JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa | Pair’d Margaret River | Kingfisher Bay Resort | Prancing Horse | Star RV | Lancemore | The Fullerton Hotel Sydney | Glenayr Farm | Taronga Zoo

    Intrepid Travel’s six-day exploration of Tasmania’s Cradle Coast worth $6430

    Intrepid-Travel-Tasmania-Cradle-Mountain-leader

    Explore the edge of the world on this six-day exploration of Tasmania’s untamed Cradle Coast.

    Discover the wild and rugged beauty of Australia’s most southern state on Intrepid Travel’s Best of Tasmania’s Tarkine & Cradle Mountain trip. The ultimate six-day escape for two loops in Tarkine/Takayna rainforest, a Cradle Mountain hike and inspired pit stops along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Spot wombats, stargaze in remote stays, and connect with Indigenous culture in stunning national parks. Includes accommodation, select meals, and unforgettable scenery.

    What’s included?

    • Hotel stay (four nights)
    • Cottage stay (one night)
    • Five breakfasts
    • One lunch
    • Two dinners
    • Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail sampling fresh raspberries, cheese, ice cream and brews along the way

    A luxury stay at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa worth $5280

    JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa_ Saltwater Lagoon Ariel View

    Enjoy white sandy beaches, a swim-up grotto and waterfalls.

    Treat your other half to a long weekend away in an Ocean View Executive Suite at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. Enjoy daily breakfast for two at Citrique restaurant, a signature massage or facial at Spa by JW, and a three-course dinner with wine pairing at the award-winning Citrique. This unforgettable experience also includes complimentary self-parking so you can get out and explore while on the Goldie.

    What’s included?

    • Three-night stay in an Ocean View Executive Suite
    • Breakfast daily for two in Citrique Restaurant
    • Signature massage or facial for two at Spa by JW
    • Three-course dinner with wine pairing for two in the award-winning Citrique Restaurant
    • Self-parking

    A Pair’d festival getaway in Margaret River worth $5000

    Beach club at Pair'd Margaret River

    Enjoy diverse programming at Pair’d. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    Win a three-night luxury escape for two at Smiths Beach Resort during the annual Pair’d Margaret River Festival. Enjoy return flights to Busselton, admission to select signature events from 21–23 November, and access to the best of the region’s bounty. This prize also includes exclusive Pair’d merch – everything you need for the ultimate festival adventure in the heart of WA’s iconic Margaret River Region.

    Pair’d is Western Australia’s top wine and food festival, designed with a ‘wine first’ approach. This festival brings together the best of culinary, music and cultural experiences, all thoughtfully curated by sommeliers to create an unforgettable celebration of the senses.

    What’s included?

    • Three-night luxury stay at Smiths Beach Resort, nestled on the pristine coastline of the Margaret River Region
    • Festival ticket pack to select signature events across the weekend of 21–23 November
    • Return flights to Busselton, flying into the heart of the region
    • Exclusive Pair’d merchandise, perfect for your weekend adventure

    The ultimate K’gari adventure worth $5000

    Lake McKenzie aerial shot on K'gari

    Paradise awaits on K’gari.

    Pack that floppy hat and factor 50+ sunscreen for five unforgettable days on World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). This epic prize includes airport transfers, ferry transport to the island, three nights at Kingfisher Bay Resort and one night at K’gari Beach Resort.

    This ultimate island escape includes two days of guided 4WD touring, daily buffet breakfasts, touring lunches, national park fees and tickets to the magical Illumina light and sound show.

    What’s included?

    • Return airport transfers to River Heads / Hervey Bay Airport
    • Return passenger ferry transfer
    • Three nights at Kingfisher Bay Resort
    • One night at K’gari Beach Resort
    • Full days of guided 4WD coach touring including lunch, National Park fees and permits
    • Daily buffet breakfast
    • Illumina light show experience

    A $5000 supercar escape with Prancing Horse

    Red Ferrari driving down road with Palm trees.

    Drive an unparalleled collection of supercars on exclusive driving experiences across Australia.

    Buckle up for the drive of a lifetime with Prancing Horse luxury driving experiences. Take the wheel of the world’s most coveted supercars – think Ferrari, McLaren or Lamborghini – for a breathtaking spin through one of six spectacular Australian regions. The ultimate road trip for two lucky rev-heads includes curated routes with gourmet dining, luxury hotels and jaw-dropping scenery.

    What’s included?

    • Gourmet dining at award-winning restaurants
    • Exceptional hospitality and some of the most exciting driving roads in Australia

    A seven-day Star RV motorhome getaway worth over $4300

    Star RV Polaris 2 MountCook 1 NZ

    This is your chance to live the van life dream. (Image: Clint Trahan)

    Ready to hit the road? Win a seven-day adventure in a premium Star RV Polaris 6 motorhome valued at more than $4300. Choose to explore Australia or New Zealand with unlimited kilometres, 24/7 roadside assistance, basic insurance and a fully equipped home on wheels that sleeps six. The swanky motorhome is decked out with a full kitchen, bathroom, air-conditioning and outdoor gear included.

    Designed with space, style and adventure in mind, the Polaris 6 has ample room to stretch out. Whether you’re chasing sunsets along the coast or stargazing in the outback, this is road tripping at its best. Perfect for a family holiday, a friend escape or a couple’s adventure – you get to write the story.

    What’s included?

    • Unlimited kilometres
    • 24/7 roadside assistance
    • Basic insurance cover
    • Fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and air conditioning
    • Camping chairs and a table for those al fresco moments

    A luxury Red Hill Escape worth over $2500

    The Ninch Lindenderry

    Rest and dream at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill.

    If ever there was a place for you to rest and dream, it is Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill. The escape includes a stay in the luxurious Balcony Suite, tucked away amid 13 hectares of gardens and vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula.

    Enjoy daily breakfast and a two-course degustation dinner with wine pairing at the acclaimed two-hatted restaurant, The Dining Room. Just minutes from beaches and top wineries, this is the perfect getaway for food, wine and nature lovers.

    What’s included?

    • Breakfast
    • Two-course degustation dinner and wine pairing at the award-winning two-hatted restaurant, The Dine Room

    A night at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney worth $2200

    The Fullerton Staircase

    A night in the Heritage Long Suite offers a truly unforgettable stay.

    Experience over-the-top indulgence in the Heritage Long Suite, the largest guestroom at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney in the historic former General Post Office building. The suite features original marble fireplaces, a grand living area, the postmaster’s original writing desk from 1874 and a dining space for six.

    Two lucky guests will enjoy Fullerton Club Lounge access with breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canapés and handcrafted cocktails. With its heritage charm and modern amenities, the prize amounts to an unforgettable stay for two.

    What’s included?

    • Exclusive access to the Fullerton Club Lounge
    • A full-size refrigerator
    • Stocked mini-bar (on request)
    • A dining area for six
    • Ensuite master bathroom
    • Separate guest bathroom
    • King-sized beds

    A luxe glamping stay for eight at Glenayr Farm worth $2000

    Glenayr Farm hot tub

    Glenayr Farm is a fully sustainable, off-grid accommodation. (Image: Salty Luxe)

    Grab seven of your nearest and dearest and make a beeline for wine country in Mudgee. At Glenayr Farm, a 129-hectare working sheep and cattle property, you’ll have four luxe bell tents all to yourselves for two blissful nights. Pick up a bottle of wine at a nearby cellar door and uncork it in a hot tub or by the outdoor fire pit come evening.

    Fall in love with the unrivalled views of the sunsets and incredible vistas over one of the most beautiful areas in the region. At night, the sky explodes to life as the area is one of the premier stargazing sites in Australia. Disconnect to reconnect and immerse in the peace of nature and country living.

    What’s included?

    • Communal area with kitchen
    • Lounge/games room with billiards table, TV and bathrooms
    • Private hot tubs
    • Fire pits

    A Wildlife Retreat experience worth $1159

    Taronga Zoo Eco Retreat

    Unique eco-retreat accommodation with immersive native animal experiences, modern Australian dining, all overlooking iconic Sydney Harbour.

    Wake up with koalas and kangaroos at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga with an unforgettable overnight stay for two in an Animal View Room. Overlooking Sydney Harbour and hidden within Taronga Zoo, this luxury eco-retreat includes two-day zoo access, a guided Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast at Me-Gal restaurant and free onsite parking. It’s a unique blend of nature, comfort and conservation – the perfect wild escape in the heart of Sydney/Warrane.

    Every visit to Taronga Zoo directly supports vital wildlife conservation efforts, meaning your unforgettable experience helps contribute to a greater cause.

    What’s included?

    • Two-day access to Taronga Zoo Sydney
    • An exclusive guided Sanctuary tour to meet some of Australia’s most beloved native animals up close
    • A delicious buffet breakfast at the Me-Gal restaurant
    • Onsite parking

    Subscribe now to increase your chances of winning big. Simply subscribe to view digital versions of past magazines going back seven years, so you can get plenty of travel inspiration while you wait for your first printed magazine to arrive.